Nick Heidfeld has all but acknowledged he is hoping Michael Schumacher decides against launching a sensational return to formula one.

Nick Heidfeld has all but acknowledged he is hoping Michael Schumacher decides against launching a sensational return to formula one.

Seven time world champion Schumacher's possible signing with the Mercedes squad would make international headlines, but it may simultaneously end the grand prix career of his German compatriot Heidfeld, 32.

On the same day that Lotus announced Heikki Kovalainen and Jarno Trulli for 2010, Heidfeld told the DPA press agency that he has turned down "concrete possibilities" while he hopes to become Nico Rosberg's teammate next year.

"I have already turned down concrete opportunities and we are continuing to give other possibilities a lesser priority," said the veteran of 169 grands prix, who since 2006 has driven for the departing BMW squad.

The intense and protracted speculation about Schumacher's decision is therefore especially frustrating for Heidfeld.

"For this reason I am not shy of my opinion about the speculation surrounding Michael's possible comeback," he admitted.

Part of Mercedes' young driver programme in the 90s, Heidfeld was also linked with a works (McLaren) seat for 2002 but missed out to Kimi Raikkonen.